Esther (come and follow me)

Esther (come and follow me) Esther Who was Esther? She was a Jewish woman who was chosen by the Persian king Ahasuerus to be his queen. What did she do? Esther used her influence as a queen to prevent the extermination of her people. She discovered that an official decree had been issued specifying a day when all Jews who lived in the Persian Empire would be killed. This perverse plan was the brainchild of Haman, who served as prime minister. (Esther 3: 13-15; 4: 1, 5) With the help of Mordecai, her eldest cousin, Esther revealed the plan to her husband, King Ahasuerus, even at the risk of his life. (Esther 4: 10-16; 7: 1-10) Hence King Ahasuerus allowed Esther and Mordecai to issue another decree, authorizing the Jews to defend themselves. The Jews successfully defeated their enemies. - Esther 8: 5-11; 9:16, 17. What can we learn from Esther? Esther set an excellent example of courage, humility and modesty. (Psalm 31:24; Philippians 2: 3) Although she was very beautiful and in a position of power, she sought help and advice from others. She spoke to her husband courageously, but with tact and respect. And even when the Jews were condemned to death, she had courage and said that she was one of them. ▸To learn more about Esther, see the articles “She defended God's people” and “She acted with wisdom, courage and selflessness”.